Timbers add goalkeeper James for 2008 season

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Portland Timbers have signed goalkeeper Jordan James for the 2008 season, it was announced today. James was a member of Major League Soccer’s Houston Dynamo in 2007.

Last season, James appeared in two Reserve Division games for Houston, which captured the 2007 MLS Cup championship.

“Bringing Jordan in adds depth and competition at the goalkeeper position,” said Gavin Wilkinson, Timbers general manager and head coach. “He has the ability and determination to push for that No. 1 spot; and having two goalkeepers with this ability is a great confidence boost for the team.”

James, 25, began his professional career with the Wilmington Hammerheads of the USL Second Division in 2005. He appeared in 10 games for Wilmington during his rookie season and allowed just nine goals to lead the league in fewest goals allowed. In 2006, James recorded a breakout season with the USL Second Division’s Cincinnati Kings, with whom he was an all-league second-team selection. The Syracuse, N.Y., native recorded a league-leading 82 saves and eight shutouts in 19 matches for Cincinnati and led the club to the USL-2 semifinals.

At St. Lawrence (NY) University, James led the Saints to back-to-back regular-season league titles and the Liberty League championship in 2004. He played in 44 games during his collegiate career and compiled a 36-5-3 record. James finished his time at SLU ranked second among goalkeepers with 24 career shutouts. He was a two-time NSCAA Regional All-America selection in 2003 and 2004 and earned All-Liberty League first-team honors as a senior in 2004.

The addition of James brings the Timbers roster for the 2008 season to a total of 16 players.

The Timbers open the 2008 campaign April 17 against the Puerto Rico Islanders at PGE Park. Season tickets, starting as low as $142.50, are available by contacting the Timbers ticket office at (503) 553-5555. For more information on season-ticket packages, flex plans, suites or group discounts, visit www.portlandtimbers.com.